North East Herts MP, Sir Oliver Heald has welcomed the Government’s announcement of a consultation later this year on proposals for all new developments in England to incorporate sustainable drainage systems to reduce the risk of surface water flooding and relieve pressure on traditional sewerage systems which can get overwhelmed by heavy rain.

New developments will have to include “sustainable drainage” such as grassed areas, permeable surfaces and wetlands to curb flooding and pollution, the Government has said.

Following the consultation, new regulations would come into force in 2024.